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Kumbirai Christine Alfayi, Midlands Reporter
A GOKWE man lost his vehicle worth US$5 000 last week when carjackers allegedly emerged from the bush armed with spears, knives, machetes and blocked the road forcing him to stop near Empress Mine.

Midlands provincial police spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the incident. He said police are investigating a case of robbery where Believe Bhobho (31) of Mapfungautsi suburb in Gokwe town was robbed of his vehicle valued at US$5 000 by a gang of 10 men.

Insp Mahoko said the incident occurred on March 14 at around 9am along Kadoma – Empress Road. “Believe Bhobho of Mapfungautsi, Gokwe was driving his white Nissan Caravan registration number AFH 9428 from Kadoma to Empress in the company of one male adult identified as Tafadzwa.

Upon approaching Kasawe turn off, ten men emerged from the bush armed with spears, knives and machetes and blocked the road forcing Bhobho to stop,” he said.

Insp Mahoko said the alleged carjackers took control of the vehicle and drove towards Hove Business Centre in Zhombe with Bhobho and Tafadzwa in the back seat.

“Bhobho and Tafadzwa managed to escape and the matter was reported to police in Gokwe town,” he said. In another related incident which occurred on March 13, at about 6pm near Mvuma tollgate along Gweru- Mvuma Road, a 17- year- old boy was allegedly robbed of his cash and property by four men who had offered him a lift from Gweru to Chivhu.

Insp Mahoko said Brandon Matsika of Bulawayo allegedly boarded a black Honda fit registration number AEF 4468 at Gweru Showgrounds to Chivhu. He said the motor vehicle had four men.

“On approaching Mvuma Tollgate, the driver diverted route into the bush where the four men searched Matsika and assaulted him with a sjambok before they took US$30 and a Samsung cellphone valued at US$80,” said Insp Mahoko.

He said they sped off leaving the boy in the bush. “The complainant sustained injuries and was treated at Gweru Provincial Hospital. Investigations are in progress and the suspects are still at large,” said Insp Mahoko.

He said police are appealing for information that might lead to the arrest of both Gokwe and Mvuma robbers.